Hosepipe bans have been introduced in certain London postcodes this week, with households warned to reduce water consumption or face fines of up to £1,000. Affinity Water has imposed a full hosepipe ban covering parts of West London, Berkshire, and Surrey, affecting areas including Uxbridge, Harrow, Edgware, Northolt, and Feltham. Thames Water customers are under a 'limited use' advisory, requesting people limit hosepipe use during heatwaves.
Five essential rules during a hosepipe ban
Under a Temporary Use Ban (TUB), using a hosepipe for non-essential activities can result in a £1,000 fine, according to the Mirror. The following activities are prohibited:
- Watering gardens with a hosepipe: Watering plants, lawns, or gardens with a hose is forbidden. Use a watering can instead.
- Washing cars with a hose: Cleaning vehicles with a hosepipe is banned unless for health and safety reasons, such as food transport. Use a bucket and sponge.
- Filling paddling pools or hot tubs: Filling or refilling swimming pools, paddling pools, Jacuzzis, or hot tubs with a hose is prohibited, along with ornamental ponds and fountains.
- Cleaning patios and driveways: Using a hosepipe to clean patios, decking, driveways, or outdoor furniture is banned. Sweep debris instead or wait for restrictions to lift.
Exemptions and enforcement
Exemptions apply for certain groups, including registered disabled individuals and blue badge holders. For example, those with mobility issues relying on a hosepipe for daily tasks may be exempt. Commercial use by businesses, such as window cleaners or those who have sown a lawn in the last 28 days, is generally exempt—but check with your local water supplier.
Hosepipe bans are enforced by water companies, which receive hundreds of reports annually from neighbours. However, Thames Water has stated customers don't necessarily need to report breaches. Violators may face a fixed penalty notice of up to £1,000 under the Water Industry Act 1991. Water companies typically issue warnings first, resorting to fines for repeat offenders, according to the BBC. To stay compliant, check guidance from your local supplier, as regulations vary.
